Trader/Senior Buyer (Food Service)

JR United Kingdom; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent food retailer is seeking a Senior Trader/Buyer to shape their commercial buying strategy across multiple stores. The role requires expertise in sourcing products, negotiating with suppliers, and aligning with market trends. A strong commercial acumen and supplier relationship management are essential for success in this pivotal position.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Buyer, Trader, or Commercial role.
• Strong interpersonal and influencing abilities.
• Deep understanding of Supply chain and procurement practices.

Responsibilities

• Sourcing high-quality products at competitive prices.
• Building supplier relationships and optimising stock levels.
• Monitoring market trends and informing buying decisions.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier relationship management

Commercial acumen

Analytical mindset

Tools

Excel

Job description

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Client:

MCS Group | Your Specialist Recruitment Consultancy

Location:

portsmouth, hampshire, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

3

Posted:

04.06.2025

Expiry Date:

19.07.2025

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Job Description:

MCS Group is delighted to partner with a leading Food retailer in Northern Ireland, to recruit a Senior Trader/Buyer to join their Commercial team.

Want a role with Autonomy to run Trading & Purchasing across 11 different retail stores across the country?

Have an Entrepreneurial mindset?

As a Trader/Buyer, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the commercial buying strategy.

You will be responsible for sourcing high-quality products at competitive prices, building supplier relationships, and optimising stock levels to ensure availability, profitability, and alignment with customer demand.

You will work closely with our procurement, sales, category, and supply chain teams to analyse market trends, negotiate supplier terms, and deliver value across the business.

You will be involved in;

Identifying new products and supplier opportunities across foodservice categories (e.g. chilled, ambient, frozen, fresh produce, disposables).

Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and manufacturers to secure best pricing, terms, and product quality.

Negotiating buying terms, rebates, and cost prices in line with margin expectations and company strategy.

Monitoring market trends, seasonal changes, competitor activity, and customer demand to inform buying decisions.

Support the development and execution of category plans, including new product development.

Criteria;

Proven experience in a Buyer, Trader, or Commercial role within the foodservice, FMCG, or wholesale sector.

Strong commercial acumen with negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.

A deep understanding of Supply chain, procurement practices, and category management.

Confident communicator with strong interpersonal and influencing abilities.

Analytical mindset with strong Excel and reporting skills.

To speak in absolute confidence about this opportunity please send an up to date CV via the link provided or contact Alan Montgomery, Specialist Consultant at MCS Group 02896935492

Even if this position is not right for you, we may have others that are. Please visit MCS Group to view a wide selection of our current jobs www.mcsgroup.jobs

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